“A clean pool is a happy pool.” That’s what my pool guy said before quitting—because I bought a robotic cleaner that did his job better.
Let’s be real: owning a pool is 10% swimming and 90% trying to keep it from turning into a frog pond. According to the CDC, improperly maintained pool water can spread illnesses in as little as 15 minutes. Fun, right? You spent five figures on a backyard paradise—don’t let it become a biohazard.
But here’s the problem: there are dozens of pool cleaners on the market. Robotic, suction-side, pressure-side—each promising spotless water and minimal effort. Some cost as much as a vacation to Greece. Others work about as well as a wet paper towel.
I’ve reviewed and broken down the best swimming pool cleaners across every category—so you don’t have to gamble on guesswork or get lost in marketing fluff. Whether you’re fighting leaves, sand, or mystery gunk that you’re afraid to identify—this guide has you covered.
Let’s dive in. (That’s the only pool pun, I promise.)
Best Overall Swimming Pool Cleaner
Aiper Scuba S1
The Aiper Scuba S1 stands out for its excellent performance without complicated setup. It’s highly effective at cleaning both walls and floors, and the filter basket is big enough that you rarely need to stop a cleaning cycle to empty it. After months of use, it continues to perform as well as it did on day one.
Best Robotic Pool Cleaner
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is a high-tech automatic pool cleaning device designed to ease pool maintenance. It features dual scrubbing brushes and a large filtration system to clean and collect leaves, twigs, dirt, pollen, and other debris in just about 2 hours. The robot can climb walls and easily navigate sharp corners in the pool.
Best Pressure-Side Pool Cleaner
Polaris Vac-Sweep 280
The Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 Pressure Inground Pool Cleaner is small and lightweight but still able to thoroughly and silently remove all kinds of debris. It cleaned the stairs, floor, and walls of the pool, leaving it very clean. The cleaner features an exterior bag that’s easy to remove and clean.
Best Suction-Side Pool Cleaner
Hayward The PoolCleaner
The Hayward The PoolCleaner Suction Cleaner is efficient and easy to use. It features an adjustable roller skirt that helps it climb over larger obstacles like tree branches or uneven ground without sacrificing suction power. The cleaner operates like an indoor robot vacuum, pivoting and swiveling itself as it cleans.
Best Pool Cleaner for Above-Ground Pools
Dolphin Escape
The Dolphin Escape Robotic Pool Cleaner is compact and lightweight, making it easy to take in and out of the pool. It features a scrubbing brush to remove stubborn buildup and dirt from the pool’s floor. The robot is corded with a 40-foot cable, which never got tangled during testing.
Best Budget Pool Cleaner
Aiper Seagull SE
The Aiper Seagull SE Robotic Pool Cleaner is cordless and easily navigates the bottom of the pool to sweep up pollen and debris. It’s incredibly affordable in comparison to other models. The cleaner is compatible with both in-ground and above-ground pools, and the cordless design makes it a great choice for large pools.
Best for Large/Deep Pools
Polaris Quattro P40
The Polaris Quattro P40 boasts 4WD agility to aggressively climb walls and brush the waterline. Even acorns, leaves, and pebbles don’t stand a chance thanks to its extra-large intake. With dual-stage filtration, this pressure-side cleaner collects both fine and large debris into an easy-clean canister with a transparent window.
What to Consider When Choosing a Pool Cleaner
- Pool Type: In-ground or above-ground? Some cleaners are designed specifically for one type.
- Size and Shape: Larger or irregularly shaped pools may require cleaners with smart navigation.
- Type of Debris: Pools that gather larger debris like leaves benefit from pressure-side cleaners, while pools with mostly dust and fine debris are ideal candidates for suction-side or robotic cleaners.
- Budget: Suction-side cleaners are the most budget-friendly, while robotic cleaners offer the most features at a higher cost.
- Maintenance Effort: Consider how much time you’re willing to spend on maintenance. Robotic cleaners often require less manual effort.
- Energy Efficiency: Robotic cleaners are typically more energy-efficient as they operate independently of your pool’s pump and filter system.
Conclusion
The right pool cleaner isn’t just about sparkling water. It’s about reclaiming your Saturday mornings, extending your pool’s lifespan, and saving money on maintenance in the long run.
If you want automation, go robotic. If your pool gets bombarded with large debris, pressure-side might be your friend. Working with a smaller budget? A suction-side model or a high-efficiency manual vacuum could surprise you. It’s not one-size-fits-all—and that’s the point.
I’ve filtered (pun intended, couldn’t resist) through dozens of models to highlight only those worth your attention—and your money. Don’t settle for a tool that turns your pool into a part-time job.
The bottom line: Invest in a cleaner that works as hard as you do. Or better yet, harder—because you’ve earned your time off. Now, go enjoy your pool like you meant to when you first installed it. Cold drink optional. Satisfaction guaranteed.
FAQ
What is the highest rated pool cleaner?
The highest rated pool cleaner is often the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus, known for its reliability, energy efficiency, and thorough cleaning performance.
Do robotic pool cleaners really work?
Yes, robotic pool cleaners work effectively. They scrub, vacuum, and filter debris automatically, saving time and reducing manual maintenance.
What is the best thing to clean a pool with?
The best way to clean a pool is with a robotic pool cleaner combined with proper chemical balance and regular brushing of walls and floors.
Which is better, suction or robotic pool cleaner?
Robotic pool cleaners are generally better than suction cleaners. They offer deeper cleaning, energy efficiency, and work independently of the pool’s filtration system.
